Father’s Day is another reason to give back to the special men in our lives. Aside from showering them with love and appreciation every day, putting a little extra effort into the celebration will surely make it a day to remember. This Sunday, clean the garden or your balcony and turn it into a chill, rustic escape. Get ready to grill, drink, and spend precious moments with Dad with these easy tips:

1. Make sure you have the right equipment/cooking essentials.

IMAGE Dairy Darilag

Prepping for any party means your kitchen will take a beating. If you have the right essentials, you have nothing to worry about. Those who love grilling and hosting such get-togethers may want to invest in a cast-iron grill as this can stand the test of time. Aside from making cooking more efficient, it can retain a consistent surface temperature so you are assured that heat will be distributed evenly. The bonus? The non-stick surface makes flipping meat easier, resulting in a well-cooked meal with even char.

Find cooking essentials and tableware at Crate & Barrel.

2. Pick an area for the gathering.

You can set up the table and chairs in the garden or transform the balcony into a cozy spot. If you live in a condo and you want to grill some steaks, remember that smoke can trigger smoke alarms. Finish all the cooking in the kitchen and make sure you have a quality range hood so that smoke can dissipate easily.

3. Set the table.

IMAGE Dairy Darilag

A wooden table with metal legs is the perfect option for your rustic-inspired get-together. Spruce it up with wooden accessories and potted plants or faux plants that can add charm to the setup.

IMAGE Dairy Darilag

Find a similar table at Match Contract.

RL Tip: Make sure you allot enough space for a mini bar where guests can grab drinks and refreshments. Sodas, bottles of wine, and your Dad's drink of choice must be properly displayed together with glasses and a bowl of ice.

Grilling is fun, but it can be messy—just think about the sauces involved! Deal with spills and make cleanup easier by using disposable linens that you can dispose after the party. Don’t forget to segregate your trash properly.

Shop for disposable linen at Landmark Department Store.

5. Create an outdoorsy, picnic vibe.

Maintain the airy, relaxing feel by working with refreshing colors like greens, blues, browns, and creams. Your décor and table accessories can follow this color scheme for a cohesive look.

IMAGE Dairy Darilag

RL Tip: Use your chopping board when serving food. These pieces complement the rustic theme and add warmth to your setup. Invest in end-grain boards as these are solid, sturdy, and show fewer knife marks.

WHERE TO SHOP:

Crate & Barrel

4/L Mega Fashion Hall, SM Megamall, Mandaluyong City

Tel. (02) 942-0771

Landmark Department Store

6751 Makati Avenue, Ayala Center, Makati City

Match Contract

2100 Pasong Tamo Extension, Makati City

Tel. (02) 642-9951

This story originally appeared in the June 2017 issue of Real Living Magazine.